When we are children, it’s so easy to play and go on imaginary (or not so much) adventures. But bit by bit we shed our sense of adventure, imagination, and even laughter. We play less and less to the point where it becomes such a distant memory that we start viewing silliness as odd and immature unless we have children. But that doesn’t count as genuine play. We spend so much time learning to be serious, responsible adults that we forget what it means to laugh loudly and enjoy life to the fullest. We wait for a better tomorrow so much that we end up in Humor Cliff – a life-long journey of us forgetting what laughter means until we are old and realize we were overly concerned with daily life and mundane worries and there is actually space for jokes, pranks, play, and adventures.

So, I am here to advocate for the space of play in our lives. It can be as simple as licking your partner’s face when they least expect it (yuck for me but so much fun for my beloved husband) or making their booty sparkle a bit (yes, yes, body glitter is just the best) or something more serious like tree climbing, lego building or those monster trucks that men tend to love so much. There is a reason why men like their toys: when you are taught you shouldn’t express your feelings and those pesky things tend to occur if you want it or not, and those toys and a bit of play allow people to manage the stress and relieve some anxiety that bubbles up in life.

Since I love everything back by up by science, many books and papers showcase the benefits of play in adults and children. The most recommended ones are probably The Power of Play and Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul. I still need to go through those but it goes through science and benefits of play on your mental health, physical benefits and impact on the levels of happiness.

However, we all need to find what works best for us but you often don’t need to look far. Small jokes and pranks are very helpful. Do you remember when you scared the shit out of another person when hiding under the table? Have you played chase with your pet / partner / kid? Have you jumped in a puddle just because there was a puddle and you thought it would be fun? If this feels too difficult or weird, make a structural effort – buy the lego constructor or painting by numbers; play board games or video games; write fiction or go wall / tree climbing. All of it is a version of play and all of it will make you just a little bit happier. With time it will become more natural and become part of your life. In turn, I want to believe you will start laughing just a bit more, bond a bit easier, be healthier and you know what? Live longer because that’s what laughter does to you. Recommendation from our household: Lego Technic series is great for anyone who enjoys cars, and puzzles and has a bit of space to store those after they are done. Look at how much fun it is.

If you do play, share your tips & tricks! I would love to get some inspiration for the next adventure.